Facebook Marketplace Scams
Fake buyers and sellers who use bogus codes, overpayments, or off-platform payments to cheat you.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
On buy-and-sell platforms, scammers pose as eager buyers or too-good sellers. Common tricks include asking for a 'verification code' (really a hijack of your phone number), overpaying with a fake check, or pushing payment outside the platform.
What it usually looks like
- A buyer asks for a code they 'sent' you to prove you are real.
- A seller has a great deal but wants a deposit before you can see the item.
- Someone insists on paying or being paid off the platform.
Common warning signs
- A 'verification code' request is a trick to take over your account or number.
- Deposits or payments requested before meeting or shipping.
- Pressure to move to text, Zelle, or another app.
Example wording scammers use
“I'll send a code to make sure you're not a bot — just read it back to me.”
“Send a $50 shipping deposit and I'll mail the item today.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- A code that lets them hijack your phone number or account.
- Deposits or payments for items that do not exist.
What to do
- Never share a verification code with a buyer or seller.
- Keep payments and chat inside the platform.
- Meet in a safe public place for local deals and inspect items first.
What to do if you already responded
- If you shared a code, secure the affected account and phone carrier login.
- Contact your bank if you sent money.
- Report the buyer or seller to the platform.